What will you make?

You will create an open silicone casting mold from an existing candle. Once the mold has cured, you can pour melted soap, candle wax, or wax into it to make exact copies—including all the details and textures of the original.

Required Materials

Product Specifications: Silicone Condensation 20

Preparation

Good preparation is half the battle. Make sure your model (the candle) is clean and dust-free. The silicone will replicate every detail—including fingerprints, scratches, and dust particles. Glossy surfaces will remain glossy in the mold; matte surfaces will remain matte.

Good news for beginners: with a candle as a model, you do not need a release agent. Silicone does not adhere to wax.

Step-by-step guide

Positioning and sealing the model

Place the candle upright on a flat, level surface. Use a small amount of Plasticine to seal any gaps at the bottom of the model. This prevents liquid silicone from flowing underneath and lifting the model.

Press the model firmly onto the base plate so that it doesn't float when you pour the silicone.

💡 Tip for beginners: Use a small piece of double-sided tape under the model for extra security.

Applying plasticine to the bottom

Apply a thin roll of plasticine along the bottom of the model. Press it firmly so that no openings remain. This is the most critical step to prevent leakage.

💡 Pro-tip: Check the seal by gently pressing on it. If the plasticine springs back without tearing, it is properly sealed.

Securing the model and placing the formwork

Secure the model to the base plate and place a formwork set for silicone molds or a sturdy plastic container around the candle. The formwork ensures that the silicone does not flow away.

Important considerations:

• The formwork must extend at least 1–2 cm above the highest point of the model.
• Silicone is very fluid—seal all cracks and holes with plasticine or tape.
• Do not make the formwork larger than necessary: every extra centimeter wastes silicone unnecessarily.

Placing formwork around the model

Close the formwork around the model. Double-check all seams and gaps. Silicone finds the smallest opening—be thorough.

💡 Alternative: A sturdy plastic storage container or a tin can also work well as formwork for smaller models.

Weighing and mixing silicone

Accurately weigh component A into a mixing container. Add component B in a ratio of 100 : 5 by weight.

Mix thoroughly for at least 3–4 minutes with a stirring stick. Make sure to scrape along all edges and the bottom of the container to prevent unmixed residue.

⏱️ Note the potlife: Silicone Condensation 20 has a working time of ± 60 minutes. Work efficiently.

Pouring silicone

Pour the silicone slowly and in a thin stream from a single fixed point into the formwork. Pour until the model is completely covered with at least 1 cm of silicone above it.

💡 Tip for a perfect contact layer: First brush a thin layer of silicone onto the model. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then pour in the rest.

Curing and mold removal

Allow the silicone to cure for ± 10 hours at room temperature. Cover the mold with a cloth or cardboard to keep out dust, but ensure adequate ventilation.

After curing, remove the formwork and carefully pull the original out of the mold. The mold is now ready for use.

First use: Rinse the mold with lukewarm water and soap to remove any residue. Dry thoroughly before use.

Casting soap or candles

Fill the mold with melted soap base or candle wax. Allow to cool sufficiently before removing the finished product from the mold. The flexible silicone mold makes demolding easy—even with complex shapes.

💡 Reuse: A well-maintained silicone mold lasts for dozens to hundreds of castings.

End result: three owl-shaped soaps cast in the homemade silicone mold

Special Instructions

• Do not expose the mold to temperatures below -40 °C or above +280 °C for extended periods.
• Porous materials (paper, fabric, untreated wood, stone) can stick. Always use a release spray or sealer if in doubt.
• Toys, nuts, shells, and other objects can be used as models—provided they are not porous or are properly pre-treated.

Storage

Uncured silicone (A and B components)

Store the closed packaging between 10 °C and 25 °C, away from direct sunlight. When stored correctly, the shelf life is at least one year. Close the packaging immediately after use to prevent moisture absorption.

Cured silicone mold

Store the mold in a dark, dry place between 10 °C and 25 °C with low humidity. Do not stack molds under heavy objects to prevent deformation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a release agent?

For a candle as a model: no. Silicone does not adhere to wax. For other materials (wood, plaster, concrete), a release agent or sealer is recommended.

Can I also use the mold for plaster?

Yes. Silicone Condensation 20 is suitable for a wide range of casting materials, including soap, candles, casting wax, chocolate, and plaster.

How much silicone do I need?

Calculate the volume of the formwork (length × width × height in cm) and subtract the volume of the model. This gives the required volume in ml. The density of Silicone Condensation 20 is ± 1.0 g/ml, so volume in ml ≈ weight in grams.

What if there are air bubbles in my mold?

Small surface air bubbles can be minimized by pouring slowly and applying a contact layer with a brush. For professional results without air bubbles, a vacuum pump is the best solution.